How do you subtract an integer from another?

To subtract an integer from another, you rewrite the subtraction expression as the first number plus the opposite of the second number. In simpler terms, you change the subtraction to addition and flip the sign of the number being subtracted.

Understanding Integer Subtraction

The core principle of integer subtraction lies in transforming the subtraction into an equivalent addition problem. This approach simplifies calculations and makes it easier to work with negative numbers.

Steps for Subtracting Integers

1. Identify the two integers: Determine which integer you are subtracting from and which integer you are subtracting.
2. Find the opposite of the second integer: The "opposite" of a number is simply the number with the opposite sign. For example, the opposite of 5 is -5, and the opposite of -3 is 3.
3. Rewrite the subtraction as addition: Change the subtraction sign to an addition sign.
4. Add the first integer to the opposite of the second integer: Perform the addition operation.

Examples

Here are some examples demonstrating how to subtract integers:

• Example 1: 7 - 3

  • Rewrite: 7 + (-3)
  • Solution: 4

• Example 2: 5 - (-2)

  • Rewrite: 5 + 2
  • Solution: 7

• Example 3: -4 - 6

  • Rewrite: -4 + (-6)
  • Solution: -10

• Example 4: -2 - (-8)

  • Rewrite: -2 + 8
  • Solution: 6

Summary